Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Bitcoin?

A: Bitcoin is a digital currency, or “cryptocurrency,” that enables instant payments to anyone, anywhere in the world. Bitcoin is completely decentralized and cannot be manipulated by any government, bank, organization or individual.

Q: What is the advantage of donating to IJ via Bitcoin?

A: While most credit card companies charge transaction fees of 1-3%, donating through Bitcoin ensures that 100% of your gift will go to the Institute for Justice and support our strategic litigation efforts.

Q: How do I donate using Bitcoin?

A: Bitcoin payment is distinct from other forms of payment in that you must send funds digitally to a specific order address. You can obtain this unique order address by clicking the “Donate Bitcoin” button at ij.org/support/other-ways-to-give.

Once you enter your first name, last name, and email address, click “next” and you’ll be presented with a custom Bitcoin address and a 10-minute window during which to complete your donation. You can then use your Bitcoin wallet to send funds to IJ, or log in if you already have an account with Coinbase, our Bitcoin processor.

As soon as the transaction has been successfully completed, you’ll receive a confirmation email thanking you for your gift. You’ll also have a chance to provide your mailing address if you’d like to receive our bimonthly newsletter, Liberty & Law.

Q: Why do you require my name and email address in order to donate Bitcoin?

A: IJ acknowledges the generosity of our donors through prompt thank you letters that double as official records for tax purposes. Having your name and email address doesn’t mean that IJ will flood your inbox (we won’t!), but it does mean that we will be able to share important case developments and hard-won victories with you and all those who make our work possible. If you do not wish to receive any updates from us by email, simply indicate your preference in the “send a message to IJ” box after your donation is complete and we’ll be sure not to contact you.

Q: How can I buy Bitcoin?

A: Visit coinbase.com for information on how to buy, sell and donate Bitcoin using a Bitcoin wallet.

Q: Is my donation of Bitcoin tax-deductible?

A: Yes. IJ is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, so all donations made to IJ are tax-deductible.

According to IRS guidance issued in March 2014, donations of Bitcoin should be treated as property for federal tax purposes. You can read the full release here: http://www.irs.gov/uac/Newsroom/IRS-Virtual-Currency-Guidance. Please consult with your tax advisor about properly recording a Bitcoin donation on your tax returns.